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This deciduous tree, which typically reaches a mature height of 20 to 30 feet tall, is renowned for its versatility and beauty, making it one of the most beloved flowering trees in gardens and landscapes. Its ability to grow up to 30 feet tall allows it to fit perfectly into various garden sizes, from small residential gardens to larger landscapes.
The Eastern Redbud's unique weeping form and the vibrant display of pink flowers make it a standout specimen among Redbud trees. This Redbud tree has garnered numerous accolades, including the 2013 Garden Club of America Plant of the Year, the 2010 Urban Tree of the Year, and the 2003 Green Ribbon Native Plant Award.
Mature Plant Size (H x W):
20-30' x 20-25'
- Attracts Bees
- Native
- Award Winning
- Walnut Toxicity Resistant
- Attracts Butterflies
- Attracts Pollinators
Planting & Care for Trees – Eastern Redbud Columbus Strain
Preparation
- This very attractive shrub can act as a small tree.
- Before its leaves appear, the branches are covered with masses of small, fluorescent pink flowers around early spring (April).
- This tree is sited best away from prevailing winds.
- It was grown from McKay's own seed source originally from the oldest trees in Columbus, Wisconsin.
- This tree can experience some die-back if planted north of the Madison, Wisconsin area.
- Hardiness zone 4.
- Mature size is around 12-20' tall x 15-18' wide.
- Use in the landscape as a corner specimen plant, with southeast exposure. You can feather out from a woodland area as well!
- They like filtered, dappled sunlight. Definitely do not plant in direct sunlight.
- Well-drained, cool, moist soil is best with a good layer of mulch over the top.
- Low maintenance plant to grow.
Opening Plant Material
- B&B - Soak root ball very well.
- Containers - Completely saturate all container plants by putting them in a larger water container until they stop bubbling, then remove. Now you’re ready to plant.
Planting B&B Trees
- Plant B&B trees in spring or fall. A reliable indicator that you can still plant is if the ground remains workable; if so, you're good to go. If a hard frost is expected, be sure to hold off on planting.
- Dig a hole at least 6" wider and no deeper than the size of the ball on the plant. Rotate the plant to the proper position. Never lift or move trees by the tops.
- Notice where the base of the trunk flairs out from the tree. This is called the root flair. This root flair should show when the tree is planted. If necessary, add soil under the ball so the root flair is exposed.
- Place fertilizer packets into the bottom of the hole (if purchased). *Use Our Recommended Fertilizer
- Backfill ½ of the hole with soil and completely saturate the soil with water.
- Cut and remove twine once the tree is straight and located as desired. Then, remove or bend back the top of the metal basket. Lastly, remove the exposed burlap from the top of the ball.
- Fill the hole to the top of the ball with soil, then soak well with water and let settle.
- The top of the root ball should be visible and slightly higher than the soil around it.
- Add mulch on top of the soil, making sure not to put mulch against the trunk or stems.
- Download our “Handling & Planting Guidelines” below for illustrations on planting.
Planting Containers
- Slide the plant from the pot by tapping on the bottom of the pot.
- Dig a hole no deeper than the depth of the container and 6" or more, making sure it’s wider on the sides
- With a shovel or knife, trim the bottom 2" off the root ball for plants in plastic containers.
- Rotate the plant to the proper position. Never lift or move plants by the tops.
- Place the root ball in the hole.
- Notice where the base of the trunk flairs out from the tree. This is called the root flair. This root flair should show when the tree is planted. If necessary, add soil under the ball so the root flair is exposed.
- Place fertilizer packets into the bottom of the hole (if purchased). *Use Our Recommended Fertilizer.
- Backfill the hole with soil, making sure the top of the root ball is visible and slightly higher than the soil around it.
- Firm the soil around the plant. Water well to settle the soil around the root ball.
Pruning - After Planting
- B&B & containers - While it is not crucial for balled and burlapped (B&B) or container plants to be pruned immediately after planting, a light pruning to shape, remove any branches damaged during shipping, or thin out a densely branched plant can aid in the transplanting process and improve the appearance of your new planting.
Pruning - Throughout the Season
- Prune in a dormant state (late winter) when there are no flowers or leaves on the plant.
- Branches that are crossing, growing in the wrong direction, or making the interior of the tree too crowded should be removed.
- All or our plants are grown as multiple stem shrub form plants that can be left branched close to the ground, or can be limbed up to create a nice micro climate for shade loving perennials or other ground cover beneath.
Watering - After Planting
- Plants typically take approximately 6 weeks to establish new roots in your soil. During this period, water plants as often as every 2-4 days at the start and at least a minimum of once per week.
- Beyond the 6 week establishment period, water once per week, unless rains occur.
- Stick your finger 3" into the soil to check soil moisture.
Watering - Throughout the Season
- After the first season, plants should only be watered during extended periods without rain.
- How do you know if your plants need water? The easiest way to tell is to touch the soil around the roots. If it is moist, there is no need to water. If dry, give it a good soaking with the hose end (no nozzle), watering the soil only and not the leaves.
- Stick your finger 3” into the soil to check soil moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Discover helpful gardening tips and insights in our FAQs, featuring McKay Nursery's Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis).
1. How tall do Redbud trees grow?
Redbud trees typically grow to be about 20 to 30 feet tall. Their compact size makes them an ideal choice for a variety of landscapes, including residential gardens and public parks.
2. Are there different types of Redbud trees?
Yes, there are several varieties of Redbud trees. Popular varieties include the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) and the “Forest Pansy” Redbud tree, known for its purple leaves that turn dark green as they mature. We also offer a Midnight Express™ variety, which boasts burgundy leaves after the show-stopping flower display in spring. Each variety offers unique characteristics, but all share the common beauty of the species.
3. How fast do Redbud trees grow?
Yes, there are several varieties of Redbud trees. Popular varieties include the Eastern Redbud (Cercis canadensis) and the “Forest Pansy” Redbud tree, known for its purple leaves that turn dark green as they mature. We also offer a Midnight Express™ variety, which boasts burgundy leaves after the show-stopping flower display in spring. Each variety offers unique characteristics, but all share the common beauty of the species.
4. Is the Eastern Redbud a compact tree?
Yes, the Eastern Redbud is considered a compact tree due to its relatively small size and spreading habit. It fits well in smaller spaces and under power lines, making it a versatile choice for urban and suburban landscapes.
5. What are the ideal conditions for planting a Redbud tree?
Redbud trees thrive in full sun to partial shade and prefer well-drained soil. They are adaptable to a variety of soil types and pH levels but perform best with regular watering, especially during dry periods.
6. Can the Eastern Redbud be used in landscaping?
Absolutely. The Eastern Redbud is a popular choice for landscaping due to its manageable size, attractive spring flowers, and heart-shaped, dark green leaves. It can serve as a focal point in a garden, line driveways, or be planted in groups to create a woodland effect.
Plant Your Ideal Garden with McKay Nursery
With our century-long expertise in the field of horticulture, we specialize in providing high-quality Eastern Redbud trees, scientifically known as Cercis canadensis, among other types of plants. Our nursery, located in Waterloo, Wisconsin, is dedicated to growing robust and healthy plants.
When you choose to shop with us, you're guaranteed plants of the highest quality, backed by our comprehensive warranty. Our superior packaging ensures your Cercis canadensis arrives at your doorstep in pristine condition, ready to thrive in its new home. For any questions or assistance, please contact us at [email protected] or call 920-478-2121.
Planting & Handling Help
Download our Planting and Handling Guide below to plan for a successful arrival and install of your plants. Be sure to water all plants as soon as they arrive and every day until you’re ready to plant. Keep any bare root bundles in a shady, cool spot with the roots covered at all times.
Learn More
Watch our videos on handling bare root plants, how your order is prepared for shipment and more.
Plant Sizing
What is the difference between Containers, Grow Bags, Bare Root, and Balled & Burlap (B&B)?
Shipping Times
Our FedEx and local shipping times depend on two factors, one is by the region and the second is the type of product being shipped. For example, small fruits are only shipped in spring, but majority of our perennials are shipped from spring until fall. Keep in mind the dates below act as a general guide. Due to unpredictable weather, staffing, inventory and industry demands these timelines can change. Therefore, we cannot guarantee any of these times.
Shipping Dates by Region*
Northern Cold Region: April 22nd - November 7th
Northern Region: April 15th - November 7th
Middle Region: April 1st - November 7th
Southern Region: March 15th - November 7th
Local Delivery (small radius from Waterloo, WI): April 22nd - November 7th
Shipping Dates by Season*
Spring Shipping: Region Start Date (above) - May
Fall Shipping: September - November
Due to unpredictable weather, these times may vary. Some varieties are exceptions due to heat and plant health reasons. Enter your shipping zip code at the top of this page and be sure to check the shipping information on each product before you add it to your cart. If the product is too large or restricted in your state, you will not be able to checkout with that item in your cart.